Looking back over recent life events I am reminded that some of the greatest lessons I have learned have come during periods of challege and change. We all go through them in order to grow. These experiences come to test our resolve and require us to use what we have learned to pass the tests that we go through.

Believe it or not, you are equipped with everything you need to be victorious during times of testing. If you have a question that does not seem to have an answer, keep searching. Don't give up. Some answers take longer than others to manifest. This happens for a reason. You can get the most out of the waiting process when you:

1) Diligently seek solutions and
2) Grasp the significance of what you learn through understanding.

My most recent experience comes from having to teach new reading concepts to my youngest child. The process of developing an at-home curriculum was both challenging and rewarding. For days when I first started learning what methods worked best for his learning style I got frustrated because it seemed to be taking so long. The process took more time than I expected but it enriched our lives in many ways. Working one-on-one with him made our relationship stronger and developing a specific curriculum for him I gained insight that helps him be more successful in school and improved my teaching skills.

Challenges can build up one's self-esteem. As ideas flow and you learn to master each situation the things that you once considered impossible turn out to be a huge stepping stones. In the end you will have a renewed mind, increased creativity, and more confidence in the power within you. After seeing my son excel in just two weeks time I am more confident in the principle of diligence. I can truly say that the hand life deals does not have to be a poor one. All you have to do is be patient while building your skill and you will be able to win the game.

Be Encouraged.

Personal Development: Breakthrough to a New Beginning

As I consider the dreams that manifested in my life this year I am thankful for the promise that says, "God is doing a new thing in you." The new beginning for me started the moment I learned to willingly let go of old unproductive habits, defeating paradigms, and profit deflating assignments.

Change has not been easy, and really never is, but I am grateful for people like Ben Gibert, Charisse Gibert, and Galena Conaster who have been phenomenal examples and destiny partners in disciplieship, prayer, mentoring, and coaching.

Throughout the year I encountered many rocky terrains and along the way it looked like I had lost many battles. I am grateful that in the midst of life's challenges to have learned from Lady Wisdom and now life coach others on how to be successful in marriage, parenthood, business, and ministry.

Assignment

This week take a look at performance in the critical areas of your life. Prepare to close out the year by seeing losses as triumphs that spring you forward in destiny. Just as a caterpillar sheds its cocoon and becomes a butterly, the things that you need to give up may be the very thing that's necessary for your new beginning. In setting your expectations for the coming year, I challenge you to do so with an uncommon committment to persevering with faith and patience. Write down at least twelve things that you would like to achieve or that you are hoping for and remember that you can only be counted out of the race if you quit.

Be encouraged!

Dream Seed

My Dream Seed Illustration helps keep my God-given purpose, vision, and goals in view. It serves as a reminder to make the best use of my time and talents. Have you considered creating a dream board, too? What's stopping you? Realize your dreams.

I Encourage You Now!

Benita